Elysian Springs, Adelaide Hills (Australia) Syrah 2019

 Before any sensitive readers have a conniption about the proprietary name, “Spring Lamb,” that’s not a menu offering but, rather, a designation in honor of the sheep and lambs that keep the weeds down between the vine rows at this property.  The wine is bright and fresh and wonderfully food-friendly, all because of excellent acidity that’s no doubt explained by the relatively cool growing conditions in the Adelaide Hills appellation.  Although this shows all the flavor impact that one expects from an Aussie Shiraz, it is much lighter on its feet and much less thick and “muddy” than the stereotypical rendition, which probably explains calling it “Syrah” rather than Shiraz.”  Bright blackberries are what this is all about, with modest wood that doesn’t get in the way of any of the sheer deliciousness of the fruit.  A Platinum Award winner at the 2022 San Diego International Wine and Spirits Challenge.